Turkey has stated that it will continue to protect its rights and interests in its continental shelf, in the face of repeated and unilateral hydrocarbon-related activities by the Greek Cypriot Administration in the Eastern Mediterranean. Turkey stated that it would take any steps necessary, alongside the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

Turkey also made clear that it supports statements made by the TRNC Foreign Ministry regarding this issue.

In a written statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized that the Greek Cypriot Administration is continuing to disregard the inalienable rights of the Turkish Cypriot people to share the island’s natural resources by continuing its unilateral hydrocarbon-related activities. The move comes despite repeated warnings from Turkey.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs also stated that the Greek Cypriot Administration’s intention to commence activities in block number three in its so-called ‘exclusive economic zone’ was being observed closely by Turkey.

The Turkish MFA added that Turkey would continue to protect its rights and interests in its continental shelf, but also that it would take any steps necessary, together with the TRNC, within the framework of the Turkish government’s ongoing support for the Turkish Cypriot people.

It concluded, “The responsibility for any situation that could arise as a consequence of these continued provocation falls solely on the Greek Cypriot side, which, instead of expending efforts towards a just and lasting comprehensive settlement in Cyprus, persists in acting as though it were the sole owner of the Island and in continuing its unilateral hydrocarbon-related activities”.